A man in his 20s is undergoing surgery in Dublin following a serious assault overnight in Athlone. He received head injuries in the incident that happened at around 12:30am in the Willow Park area.

Emergency services were made aware of the assault by a telephone call and both gardaí and the ambulance service attended the scene.

The man was rushed to Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe from where he was transferred to Beaumont Hospital in the capital.

The area where the attack took place has been sealed off for a technical examination later today.

Garda investigations are at an early stage.

They are appealing for witnesses to come forward and can be contacted in Athlone on 0906-492-600 or on the Garda Confidential Line at 1800-666-111.